Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy participated in a tandem skydive over Tampa Bay, concluding a successful fundraising effort that raised over $85,000 for the Gary Sinise Foundation. This initiative aimed to support military personnel and first responders involved in relief efforts for hurricanes Helene and Milton. The skydive was timed with the departure of the Carnival Paradise for its inaugural Special Forces Legacy Initiatives (SFLI) cruise, enhancing the event’s significance. Additionally, the Micky and Madeleine Arison Family Foundation pledged to match these funds, further benefiting the Wounded Warrior Project.

Duffy’s skydive was not just a fundraising capstone but also a symbolic act of solidarity, performed alongside the Round Canopy Parachute Team and members of the USSOCOM Para-Commandos. The jump was executed from the historically significant “Tico Belle,” a C-47 aircraft that was part of the Normandy D-Day invasion in World War II, adding a layer of historical reverence to the event. This act not only highlighted Carnival Cruise Line’s commitment to supporting military and disaster relief efforts but also showcased a unique blend of adventure and philanthropy.

“Jumping from a plane was a rush, but the real thrill is supporting a meaningful cause in one of our important homeport communities,” said Duffy. “I thought my first-ever skydive would be a good fundraising opportunity, and I’m so grateful to everyone who donated to this effort. I’m proud we can deliver this significant donation to the Gary Sinise Foundation, a great organization supporting the work of military and first responders assisting in hurricane relief efforts.”

The tandem skydive followed a day full of events at the Port of Tampa Bay, including a special performance by Gary Sinise and the Lt. Dan Band, and on board Carnival Paradise. The SFLI chartered the ship to ensure special forces alumni, their families, Gold Star families, and friends can enjoy a five-day cruise to The Bahamas and strengthen the bonds within their community. This Special Forces cruise is bringing together Green Berets that served from the Korean War to present times to enjoy a reunion at sea. 

For additional information on Carnival Cruise Line and to book a cruise vacation, call 1-800-CARNIVAL, visit www.carnival.com, or contact your favorite travel advisor or online travel site.

ABOUT CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE
Carnival Cruise Line, part of Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE: CCL; NYSE: CUK), is the first cruise line to sail over 100 million guests and is proud to be known as America’s Cruise Line, for carrying more Americans and serving more U.S. homeports than any other. Since its founding in 1972, Carnival has continually revolutionized the cruise industry and popularized the cruise vacation as an affordable and fun travel option. Carnival operates from 14 U.S. and two Australian homeports, as well as seasonally from Europe and employs more than 48,000 team members representing 120 nationalities.

Carnival’s fleet of 27 ships reflects an exciting period of growth that continues with the addition of seven ships through 2033: two ships joining in February 2025 when P&O Cruises Australia integrates into Carnival; a fourth and fifth Excel class ship scheduled for 2027 and 2028 respectively; followed by three additional new ships from an innovative new class currently under development. Carnival’s next new guest offering will be the all-new exclusive destination, Celebration Key, set to debut on Grand Bahama next summer.